Keynotes

Unfiltered: What Tech Investors Really Think About UxS & Robotics

The big picture: Venture capital drives the future of uncrewed systems and robotics, but what are investors really looking for? In this candid discussion, top tech investors will share insights on funding strategies, emerging trends, and how companies can position themselves for success in a competitive market. Attendees will gain a rare look into the investment mindset shaping the next generation of UxS and defense technologies.

The Future of National Security

The big picture: As our industry evolves, the intersection of public and private sectors, particularly in cybersecurity and technological innovation, becomes increasingly critical. Ms. Gordon will explore the pivotal role business leaders play in safeguarding national security. She will provide actionable insights into emerging trends, highlighting potential threats and uncovering opportunities that demand the attention of today’s leaders.

Up to the Minute Politics

The big picture: With the changing administration and its political impact on industries like ours, we’ve invited Jim to provide a comprehensive overview of the complex political challenges facing the United States. He will offer an in-depth analysis of these trends and their implications for industries like ours.

Dynamic Innovation: Resilience in Defense Tech to Counter Modern Threats

The big picture: In an era of rapidly evolving threats, resilience in defense technology is more critical than ever. This fireside chat will bring together leaders from cutting-edge AI technology providers to explore innovative solutions designed to strengthen national security. Beyond breakthroughs, the discussion will also address key challenges that must be overcome to ensure these advancements are effectively integrated and deployed. This session offers a big-picture perspective on the future of defense tech, highlighting both the opportunities and obstacles in tackling modern defense challenges.

Federal Aviation Administration Brief

The big picture: As the uncrewed and autonomous systems industry continues to scale, safety and security remain at the forefront of national and global priorities. Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau will share the latest updates, priorities, and regulatory insights impacting the future of advanced aviation. This keynote provides a critical opportunity for the industry to align with the FAA’s vision and gain actionable insights into the evolving priorities driving integration, innovation and operational safety.

A Pathway to Scale

The big picture: As the demand for rapid, autonomous delivery grows, the pathway to scaling drone operations is becoming clearer. This discussion will examine the progress made in integrating drone delivery, the remaining challenges, and what the industry can expect in the year ahead. From regulatory milestones to technological breakthroughs, this discussion will highlight the key factors shaping the future of commercial drone operations—and what they mean for stakeholders driving innovation and expansion in this space.

Countering the Next Threat: SOCOM’s Strategy for Unmanned Systems and Operational Readiness

The big picture: The battlespace is evolving rapidly, with unmanned systems, integrated air defense challenges, and emerging autonomous technologies redefining modern warfare. USSOCOM is on the front lines of adapting to these changes, leveraging innovation to counter threats and maintain operational superiority. This keynote will explore how SOCOM is integrating unmanned systems into counter-threat strategies, breaking through anti-access, area-denial environments, and ensuring forces remain ready for the next conflict. Drawing from global lessons, this discussion will highlight the critical role of private-sector collaboration in accelerating capability development and ensuring the defense community stays ahead of emerging challenges.

Dragonfly – Flights of Exploration on an Alien Moon

The big picture: Ken will take us on a fascinating deep dive into Dragonfly—NASA’s ambitious mission to send a robotic rotorcraft, or drone, to explore the surface of Saturn’s largest moon, Titan. This session will highlight design considerations and environmental challenges involved in leveraging uncrewed systems technology for such an extraordinary mission. From a technical perspective, it offers insights into cutting-edge engineering challenges, while also showcasing the broader potential of uncrewed systems for exploration and innovation across industries.

Forging the Future: Innovation and Resilience

The big picture: As we look ahead to XPONENTIAL 2026 in Detroit, this session will explore the investments, vision, and collaboration shaping the future of mobility, automation, and smart infrastructure. Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification leadership will highlight Michigan’s role in driving innovation and why this matters for the industry. Together with Michael Robbins, AUVSI's CEO and a Detroit native, they’ll discuss how emerging technologies are transforming economies, and what it means for businesses ready to lead the way.

Community Address

The big picture: In 2025, new challenges and opportunities are facing the uncrewed systems and autonomous technology industies. Michael will share recent updates about tech integration across commercial and defense sectors and how these are driving industry-wide growth and innovation.

Passing of the Gavel: AUVSI Board Chairperson Transition